genius loci

[ gen-i-oos loh-kee; English jee-nee-uhs loh-sahy, -kahy ]

noun

, Latin.

1. the guardian spirit of a place.
2. the distinctive character or atmosphere of a place with reference to the impression that it makes on the mind.

genius loci

/ ˈdʒiːnɪəs ˈləʊsaɪ /

noun

1. the guardian spirit of a place
2. the special atmosphere of a particular place

Word History and Origins

Origin of genius loci¹

genius of the place

Example Sentences

Though he is never called to testify, Key is the genius loci of this suit.

From The Daily Beast

Genii protect individuals and places: springs, hills, cities, and army barracks all had a genius loci, a genius of the place.

From The Daily Beast

For Isabel Otis the genius loci had a more powerful and enduring magnetism than any man or woman she had ever known.

From Project Gutenberg

But the genius loci here impresses on the trade in discarded odds and ends a peculiar character of its own.

From Project Gutenberg

The genius loci, the Chevalier himself, was not the last to welcome this prime stay and ornament of his establishment.

From Project Gutenberg

The genius loci would move the very stones to preach on such a theme.

From Project Gutenberg

Madzu Pennu, or the village deity, the universal genius loci.

From Project Gutenberg